Brian Bennett

(2:59 PM)

Happy New Year, and welcome to another Big Ten chat. Lots of bowls to talk about, and plenty of other stuff as well. SO fire away with your best questions.

Brian Bennett

(3:00 PM)

By the way, I'm here in Los Angeles, and Pac-12 blogger Kevin Gemmell is sitting nearby if you have any questions about the Stanford side of the Rose Bowl

Dennis (Airville, PA)

I've heard that as many as 10 head coaches in the NFL will be canned in the next few days. O'Brien's name has been mentioned but what other Big 10 coaches might be taken? Will Bo Pelini be considered?

Brian Bennett

(3:02 PM)

Happy Black Monday. O'Brien is definitely the most desired Big Ten coach by NFL teams. Pelini is an interesting name. I could see him being an NFL guy someday as he does not seem to particularly enjoy recruiting or glad-handing, but not sure he's a hot commodity right now. Kirk Ferentz will always have some appeal, though he's not exactly on fire, either

Kevin (San Diego)

I really think with some more experience for the offense, Michigan State will be back to competeing for the B1G title next year if Laveon Bell sticks around. In your opinion, any chance that he and William Gholston do decide to stay in East Lansing and show that this year was the fluke we all know it was?

Brian Bennett

(3:04 PM)

The Spartans will have the defense and the schedule to make some noise. The offense is the huge question. I don't think Bell will be back unless he hates his body. It's really all about the QB situation, which now looks like a wide open competition. Michigan State's passing game has been abysmal, and if that doesn't improve, things won't be much better next year.

Josh (Madison, WI)

Brian... why don't any "experts" in the media give the Badgers a chance? Yes we have lost 5 games, 3 were in ot (1 of them to 12-0 OSU) and the other 2 by 1 score. Also what excuse will people make if the Badgers win the Rose Bowl?

Brian Bennett

(3:06 PM)

The media "experts" I've talked to certainly think Wisconsin has a chance. The two teams are quite similar in their approach. Trouble is, Stanford is awfully good against the run, and the coaching change had to be a detriment in Wisconsin's bowl prep. I think it will be close.

Brian (DC)

What should Rutgers focus on in order to compete in the B1G in 2014?

Brian Bennett

(3:07 PM)

This is an easy one. Offense, offense, offense. The Rutgers defense was really good this year, but the Scarlet Knights have been lacking in a really good offensive attack since Ray Rice left, it seems to me.

David (TX)

Is adam at the orange bowl?

Brian Bennett

(3:08 PM)

He is indeed. Little warmer there than here, but I've got no complaints.

Zach H (Centennial, CO)

Is there anyway for Nebraska to beat Georgia. I know they will have a tough time on both offense and defense but as an optimistic fan, I think and hope they can get it done. Also, what do you think next year will hold for the Huskers. They have a relatively easy schedule and will have another high powered offense. Do you think they can make it back to the big ten championship and possibly have a rose bowl trip?

Brian Bennett

(3:10 PM)

The thing that would give me hope is how Alabama ran all over Georgia in the SEC title game. Nebraska is not quite as physical as 'Bama (who is?) but its running game could give Georgia problems, especially without its starting DT. But the Huskers are going to have to play a clean game. As for next year, Nebraska should be the Legends favorite. It's going to come down to whether that defense can rise to a championship level.

Bernard (Philly)

If Alvarez pulls off the Rose Bowl win with this 7-5 squad, how badly does that diminish Bielema's reputation in Madison (especially given his 2 previous Rose Bowl losses)? I still haven't figured out how the man lost 3 games with Russell Wilson and Montee Ball.

Brian Bennett

(3:11 PM)

Here's the great thing for Alvarez: If he loses, Wisconsin fans blame it on Bielema. If he wins, Wisconsin fans say Bielema couldn't have done it. We have no idea what this team would have done here under Bielema, but since he left he'll never shed that "can't win the big one tag" until he does so at Arkansas. I do think this is might be the best matchup of the past three Rose Bowls for Wisconsin, even though Stanford is really good.

Mike (Evanston)

Lets play the what if game for Northwestern here. What if Northwestern scores against Penn State late in the 4th, Stop Taylor Martinez in 4th, and prevents Roy Roundtree from making his catch. They beat Wisconsin in the Rose Bowl. Would they be in the national championship?

Brian Bennett

(3:13 PM)

It's a dangerous game, since what if Northwestern didn't make plays late against Michigan State, Syracuse, etc? But I get your point. I don't think a 13-0 Northwestern plays for the national title. The Wildcats weren't on the Top 25 radar and would have had too much ground to make up in the polls, unlike a team like Ohio State. And there would be a huge perception problem for Northwestern in the court of public opinion vs. Alabama.

Brian Bennett

(3:15 PM)

BTW, the preseason national champion is down 7-0 to Georgia Tech in the second quarter

Mochila (Grand Rapids, MI)

Your colleague Ubben wrote that "Bowl games mean even more pain and another rough finish for the Golden Gophers." Do you agree with this? It may have been a heartbreaking loss, but I think there was a lot to be optimistic about. They were pegged to be beaten by a lot, and were a late interception away from potentially winning. As far as losses go, they should have plenty to be optimistic about going into Kill's third year.

Brian Bennett

(3:16 PM)

I get where David was coming from, because of Minnesota's bowl history of late. And the Gophers had this game won, led by seven points with a little more than a minute left and found a way to lose in regulation. That's painful. But if the Gophers can see the big picture, there was a whole lot to like about the bowl performance and the direction of the program.

Backpack (Detroit, MI)

Cook may not have been pretty, but the one thing he had that Maxwell didn't was composure. Will Maxwell's lack of confidence carry over into the new year? What odds do you give him to be the starting quarterback in 2013?

Brian Bennett

(3:19 PM)

Excellent point. Cook is known as a gunslinger, which may get him into trouble with more exposure. But Maxwell did look a little unsure of himself down the stretch, a result perhaps of the repeated failures of the O-line and receivers (though Maxwell had his share of bad decisions and throws). Not going in for the final drive has to hurt Maxwell's confidence, but he is a strong-willed kid. I'd give him no better than a 50-50 shot to be the starting QB in the opener next year

HawkfanBeau (QC)

Kirk to the NFL is just silly talk, but seems odd the NFL still wants him after the past 3 years

Brian Bennett

(3:20 PM)

Well, Kirk Ferentz is still very respected for his ability to develop players. Remember, he wouldn't have to recruit in the NFL, so talent shouldn't be an issue. He'd have to hire a very good offensive coordinator, that's for sure.

Ken (Toledo)

Brian What chances does Michigan have tomorrow? And do you feel they will be in the big ten title mix in 2013?

Brian Bennett

(3:22 PM)

A decent chance, if the offensive line can hold up and the Devin/Denard combo is effective. I think Michigan's defense can contain USC and Lewan can at least slow down Clowney. I wonder if Michigan can get any kind of running game going. The Wolverines are definitely in the mix for the Big Ten title. I'd put them up there with Nebraska for the Legends favorite role, which Michigan State and Northwestern a shade behind.

Bob (Penn.)

Was this year a fluke for Penn. State, or do you expect them to be even better next year with that number one quarterback heading to their?

Brian Bennett

(3:24 PM)

A fluke? No. There were some outstanding seniors on this year's team. As far as even better next year, that's going to be tough without McGloin, Hodges, Hill, Mauti, etc. The Lions will have an inexperienced QB no matter who they choose. But they will also have a better knowledge of O'Brien's system and shouldn't be subject to early-season problems. Team could have same record but not be quite as good as this year's team, potentially.

Josh (Madison, WI)

Odds of seeing Joel Stave tomorrow?

Brian Bennett

(3:25 PM)

Wisconsin's coaches have pretty much said Stave will play. Is it a smoke screen? Maybe. But I do think Stave is a better thrower right now than Phillips, so even putting him in as a decoy is probably wise.

Christopher Wright (Oshkosh,WI. )

How do you feel about the Leaders Division in 2012. I think that Wisconsin will be very tough because of losing so few players. Do you think that Wisconsin can go to the Shoe with Anderson and Beat Ohio St??

Brian Bennett

(3:28 PM)

I think the Buckeyes still must be the heavy favorite, even with some key seniors leaving. Andersen will know Urban Meyer, but vice versa is also true. Wisconsin should be very good, but a notch below Ohio State, I think.

Ivan (St Petersburg)

Brian, I'm resigned to the B10 expansion, even though I'd love to go back to the original 10. At this point, I'm hoping they dip deep into SEC land. Chances that they get into the South with the next round?

Brian Bennett

(3:30 PM)

I think the Big Ten would love to look to the southeast. The options are pretty limited, though, with North Carolina, Georgia Tech and Virginia the most likely bets. And, hey, Georgia Tech is shutting out USC at the moment.

David (TX)

What is the vibe you are getting from Rose bowl teams? Does Wisconsin seem confident?

Brian Bennett

(3:31 PM)

When Barry Alvarez is involved, confidence is never a problem.

Josh (Madison, WI)

Can you do me a favor and tell Kevin Gemmell that Stanford better be worried because the Badgers are dropping 70 on them tomorrow just like they did against Nebraska! ha

Brian Bennett

(3:31 PM)

Kevin says, "I appreciate the comment. It might take seven games for them to get to 70."

Chad (Running Springs, CA)

Stanford has a very good run defense. Wisconsin recruits behemoths for its offensive line. Will this be unlike anything Stanford has seen this year? Do any other Pac-12 teams have as big an offensive line as Wisconsin?

Brian Bennett

(3:33 PM)

USC has got some big O-linemen, and Washington as well. But few teams have the pure size and strength as Wisconsin. Except maybe Stanford.

Scott (South Carolina)

Clemson or LSU?

Brian Bennett

(3:33 PM)

LSU. Always take the SEC over the ACC. Every time.

Jason (Columbus, OH)

Brian, it seems that the true "major" conferences are the SEC, B1G, and PAC-12. ACC, Big East, and Big12 have all been "picked apart" by the other 3 conferences. Hard pill to take, but just saying.

Brian Bennett

(3:34 PM)

I'd disagree on the Big 12 and say that league has a strong claim to being better than the Big Ten the past few years. The ACC does not belong in any power discussions right now. The Big Ten needs to get better to make sure it stays there.

Max (Grosse Pointe Farms MI)

Does the Big Ten have a plan or improving officiating for next year? Will we have to suffer through another season in which bad officiating changes the results of games?

Brian Bennett

(3:36 PM)

Big Ten officials will get evaluated, reviewed and trained, with new points of emphasis for next season. Ultimately, like the teams themselves, those officials will need to have a better performance on the field next season.

Scott (South Carolina)

You said to always take the SEC over the ACC every time, what if Florida State played Kentucky?

Brian Bennett

(3:36 PM)

We're talking basketball, right?

Andrew (Struthers, OH)

What's your early prediction where Ohio State will start in the polls next season?

Brian Bennett

(3:37 PM)

A little depends on how teams finish, who leaves for the NFL, etc. But I see the Buckeyes absolutely in the Top 5. My prediction: No. 3.

terri (visalia ca)

Hope you have a good New Year. Your thoughts on who will win Norter Dame or RollTide?

Brian Bennett

(3:38 PM)

Thanks, and same to you, Terri. Though i think the Notre Dame defense can keep it close, I can't bring myself to pick against Alabama and Nick Saban with a month to prepare.

Brian Bennett

(3:39 PM)

Touchdown, Silas Redd.

Willy (Evanston)

If the cats beat Miss St. with almost all starters returning, how high can you see them ranked?

Brian Bennett

(3:39 PM)

Top 20.

Ian (I70) [via mobile]

The Bears job is the only vacancy that really has me worried that BO'B will be interested in. Are there others that I should be concerned about? Also has BO'B said or done anything to elicit all of these rumors or is it driven from the nfl side?

Brian Bennett

(3:40 PM)

There's always the Eagles job. Moving costs would be low. O'Brien is in demand because of his NFL background. I think he'll consider some jobs, but I don't see him as a guy who would jump ship after one year. Of course, I've been wrong before on that.

Mike (Columbus, OH)

So....Nick Saban runs Urban Meyer out of the SEC to the B1G. Urban Meyer runs Bret Bielema out of the B1G to the SEC. This cannot end well for Bret Bielema!!

Brian Bennett

(3:41 PM)

Hmmm...I think it was a little more complicated than that

Randy (Michigan)

It's an exciting day tomorrow for the B10 especially for Northwestern. What do you think the chances are for them winning their first bowl game in my lifetime? Also, I saw an espn video a few days ago that said that Michigan would get beat by 30 points... granted that was not Adam or you. However, that seems to be extreme overkill to me. I think that if Michigan limits turn-overs the game will be close. What do you think?

Brian Bennett

(3:42 PM)

I picked Northwestern, and while Mississippi State has some good athletes, this is a favorable matchup for the 'Cats. Secondary has to play well, though. No way Michigan loses by 30. Other than Alabama, nobody has blown out the Wolverines, and South Carolina is not that explosive offensively.

Craig (Wisconsin)

I know it is early and some of the staff isn't "official" how do you think UW did in replacing BB and the staff?

Brian Bennett

(3:44 PM)

Love the Gary Andersen hire. He was smart to keep Strickland and Hammock and would be wise to keep Bart Miller as well. He's bringing some other very good assistants from Utah State. The Ludwig hire as OC raises a few eyebrows, but Andersen knows him well and obviously has confidence in his ability to get the job done.

Joe (Pittsburgh)

Highly unlikely Urban Meyer would ever take a NFL gig, but if he did.. how successful do you feel he could be in the NFL?

Brian Bennett

(3:45 PM)

Really interesting question. Meyer is so smart that I feel like he'd have success at any level. On the other hand, his blunt style might not play as well with pros as it does with college guys, and I'm not sure how his offense would translate. He's so competitive that I'd worry about his health in the NFL.

Josh (Madison, WI)

Anything you have seen or heard this week that would make you want to change any of your bowl picks for tomorrow or are you confident in them?

Brian Bennett

(3:46 PM)

No. I'm 2-0, so let's let it ride.

Craig (Braintree, MA)

I looked at the schedule for the Gophers next year. If they can perform near the level of the game against Texas Tech, chances for another bowl game look decent to good. Are you more bullish or bearish on the Gophers for 2013?

Brian Bennett

(3:47 PM)

Nonconference sked: UNLV, at New Mexico State, W. Illinois, San Jose State. Shameful, but it should equate to 4-0 unless disaster strikes. Gophers can definitely win at least two Big Ten games again. Program is on the upswing but needs to find more offensive playmakers.

Mike (Columbus, OH)

Brian, I find it funny that Tressel is gone, but now we have three B1G head coaches that are former Tressel assistants (Hazell, D'antonio, and Beckman). Thoughts.

Brian Bennett

(3:48 PM)

Success breeds opportunities. No one ever doubted that Tressel was a great coach.

Scott (South Carolina)

Do you think Alabama and Notre Dame are the two best teams in college football?

Brian Bennett

(3:49 PM)

While Notre Dame absolutely belongs in the BCS title game, I have my doubts whether the Irish are one of the two best teams in college football. But this is the system we have, and they did everything to get to the game.

James (Libertyville )

Does the new Ryan Fieldhouse have an immediate impact on recruiting for Northwestern?

Brian Bennett

(3:51 PM)

It should. The team can show pictures of the facility to recruits, though it's not known yet when exactly the fieldhouse will begin construction. It should have a big impact once completed.

Max (Grosse Pointe Farms MI)

How do you feel about the current bowl setup in the Big Ten? Slotting seems to have created a situation that makes it hard to sell tickets. In the past schools negotiated their own games with the exception of the Rose Bowl. Don't you think schools would have an easier time selling tickets if they had more control over where their team was going?

Brian Bennett

(3:53 PM)

I don't know if it's the slotting. Watch bowl games around the country. For the most part, games are having trouble selling tickets. Travel is expensive, the economy is not great, HD TVs are convenient -- all sorts of reasons. Schools are also going to have a hard time selling their own tickets -- which they must pay for no matter what -- when fans are smart enough to find cheaper, better seats online.

Ken (Toledo)

I must ask Is Michigan a top ten team in 2013? And Thanks Brian

Brian Bennett

(3:53 PM)

No, I don't think so. Too many questions on the O-line, at running back, receiver

Dave (Columbus, OH)

Brian, If the B1G regroups the divisions and go with an East-West divide (an NEW names PLEASE!!). Will you guys split duties by conference. Or do you both get to cover the whole conference still?

Brian Bennett

(3:54 PM)

I guess our bosses could always change their minds, but I doubt it. We both need to know the whole conference because we cover games involving teams from different divisions and so either one of us can handle any news that breaks throughout the league.

David (Chicago)

I must ask if Illinois is a top ten team in 2012? and Thanks Brian. As long as we are asking ridiculous questions.

Brian Bennett

(3:55 PM)

Are we still talking basketball?

Kim foster (Newark, Ohio)

What are your opinions on Braxton Miller, with Urban Meyer 2nd year as coach

Brian Bennett

(3:56 PM)

Still needs to improve his passing. If he gets that down -- and he's a good enough athlete that I think he will -- sky is the limit. I see him as a one of the Heisman frontrunners in '13, though he may not run the ball as much as he did in the first half of the year.

pk (boston)

bb gator bowl highscoring??

Brian Bennett

(3:57 PM)

I believe so. Both teams have enough athletes on offense to make some things happen. Northwestern bowl games are rarely low-scoring, right?

David (TX)

is Barry right , the ROSE BOWL is the prettiest venue in all of sport?

Brian Bennett

(3:57 PM)

At least in football, yes. No complaints ever about being here.

Max (Grosse Pointe Farms MI)

Do you see any chance that MSU will start a red shirt freshman (O'Connor) or true freshman (Terry) next year?

Brian Bennett

(3:58 PM)

They're going to have to overcome two more experienced guys, which won't be easy. I don't see either starting at the beginning of the year, but maybe later on. Terry is intriguing because of his running ability. Will Dantonio really want to go that route?

Shane (Dublin, OH)

If Nebraska beats Georgia soundly, the Big Ten boasts a good bowl record, the SEC does not except for Alabama over ND. Does Ohio State sneak in as AP National Champions

Brian Bennett

(3:59 PM)

No. Alabama would still be the national champ. SEC perception is too strong.

Ned (DC)

Which would be worse for PSU recruiting -- 4 years of sanctions or 3 years of sanctions and losing BO'B?

Brian Bennett

(4:00 PM)

Losing Bill O'Brien would be a killer.

Brian Bennett

(4:00 PM)

OK, everybody. That's all the time I have for this week. Have a great New Year's Eve and stay safe. Tomorrow will be a ton of fun.